Our Company
Day in the life: Emma Mundy, Environmental Compliance Manager at Lorax EPI
What's the first thing you do in the morning when you get into work?
I make myself a protein shake and put Radio One on our office Alexa speaker. Then, I check any regulatory emails and updates that have come through to ensure I haven't missed any big stories for the day ahead.
What does a typical week look like for you?
This varies depending on the time of year. In quarter one, I focus on collating compliance scheme updates and ensuring all our software information is accurate and up to date. I'll ensure I'm up to speed on all industry news. Any important information is published through our blogs and social media channels, while consultancy work is produced to a schedule.
I usually respond to client queries throughout the week. I ensure that the team know what they are doing for the week ahead and there are usually a few meetings I need to attend. My job is extremely varied and fast paced which keeps it interesting.
How did you get into environmental compliance?
When I finished my degree at Warwick University, I knew I wanted a research job because that's where my strengths lie. I was offered a job as an environmental compliance researcher as soon as I graduated, and I've worked in both environmental consulting and EU policy roles throughout my career.
What aspect of your role makes you get out of bed in the morning?
It's a fascinating subject and there is always something new to learn. We get some amazing feedback from our clients and the people we meet at events which makes all our hard work worthwhile. I must also mention the fantastic team I work with and the boss makes me coffee every day!
What piece of 2018 environmental legislation to be introduced will have the biggest impact on businesses, and why?
It will depend on your location. We are seeing a lot of American companies struggle with the changes to WEEE scoping under the EU WEEE Directive as perhaps it hasn't come across their radar before. And, although it's a global issue, we are certainly seeing the impact that increasing awareness of the environmental footprint of plastics is having in the UK and across the EU.
Key trends for 2018/2019?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation in general will be very much under the spotlight. The plastics issue is currently taking all the headlines, but the EU's Circular Economy Package will be a big turning point in legislative terms, with regards to the revised targets that have been set for waste.
We may also see beverage deposit schemes implemented in the UK this year. We are likely to see a number of changes introduced to compliance schemes worldwide, and in the UK, our environment secretary Michael Gove has already announced that there will be changes to the PRN system.
The transition period for the WEEE2 Directive also ends this year and producers will need to make sure they are prepared for the changes ahead. Throw Brexit into the mix and EPR is going to create a significant work load for obligated companies over the next year.
Any companies who believe they may be affected by the upcoming changes should seek further advice to help them to clarify their environmental obligations going forward. At Lorax, we pride ourselves on simplifying the process of environmental compliance and assisting them to reduce impact and cost through data transparency.
Interests outside of work?
I have two children, so spending time with them. I love going to the gym and weightlifting. I've set myself a target to squat and deadlift 100 kilos by the end of the year - I'm not too far off this currently! I also love interior design and like upcycling old pieces of furniture for my house.
What impact has working in environmental compliance had on you as a consumer in terms of waste awareness, recycling etc.
It's really opened my eyes to the problems we have with regards to waste. I'm very keen to be as environmentally responsible as I can, but I know I can do more. At Lorax, we recently we took part in a challenge to give up plastics for Lent. It made me realise how reliant we are on plastic packaging for every day items and how difficult it is to source alternatives.
I try to educate my children on the importance of reusing and recycling objects, most importantly on not using things they don't need – such as straws and plastic spoons in their favourite coffee shop. I also nag my husband to use reusable bags every time he goes food shopping!
To find out more about Lorax EPI, its software and its team, please visit: www.loraxcompliance.com.
